Potato Imports

Oral Answers to Questions — Agriculture, Fisheries and Food – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 8 February 1972.

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Photo of Mr Edwin Wainwright Mr Edwin Wainwright , Dearne Valley 12:00, 8 February 1972

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the estimated amount of potatoes, in tons, that will be licensed for imports into this country during the next six months; and if he will give the names of the exporting countries.

Photo of Mr James Stodart Mr James Stodart , Edinburgh West

Imports of new potatoes are not subject to individual licence. Imports of main crop potatoes are normally prohibited, and it is not expected that any import licences will be issued for these during the next six months.

Photo of Mr Edwin Wainwright Mr Edwin Wainwright , Dearne Valley

I thank the hon. Gentleman for that reply. Ought he to have consultations with small farmers about projected imports of potatoes? Will he assure us that, if no imports are allowed in the next six months, the price of chips will be kept at a reasonable level?

Photo of Mr James Stodart Mr James Stodart , Edinburgh West

I think that consultations with small farmers are matters for the Potato Marketing Board.